Bicycle carrier

ABSTRACT

The present invention is a rack system or bicycle carrier configured to prevent contact or damage onto vehicle body accessories such as a spoiler or fin. The bicycle carrier pivotally engages or mounts onto the rear end of a vehicle and preferably has a clearance frame, which is an additional frame extension, which provides the clearance needed over the spoiler or fin. The clearance frame is preferably attached to the upper frame or portion of the bicycle carrier and can be adjusted or rotationally positioned. The bicycle carrier is configured for all vehicle types such as sedans, hatchbacks, and sport utility vehicles.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention generally relates to rack systems or bicycle carriersadapted to mount onto a vehicle. In particular, the invention is abicycle carrier that mounts onto a rear portion of a vehicle and has anextension or clearance frame, which provides clearance over a vehiclebody accessory such as a spoiler or fin.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Rack systems that are used to transport bicycles on a vehicle arecommonly referred to as bicycle carriers or bike racks. The bicyclecarrier is a frame that attaches onto a vehicle by fastening a pluralityof straps and hooks. Depending on the type of vehicle, the bike carriermay be attached onto the vehicle's roof, rear trunk, or rear tow hitch.

Rear mounted bicycle carriers generally attach to the rear end portionof a vehicle (usually a trunk or rear hatch) and are typically adjustedto fit various sizes of vehicles such as sedans, hatch backs, squarebacks, mini-vans, and sport utility vehicles. The trunk racks aregenerally installed by using multiple straps with hooks, buckles toadjust the strap tightness, and pads to rest against the vehicle'ssurface. The hooks are typically attached to any conveniently locatedand structurally sound area, such as the trunk or roof rack cross bar,but are not usually attached onto the vehicle's glass, plastic moldings,spoilers or fins, due to the material and structural constraints ofthese parts.

For aesthetic and aerodynamic reasons, many newer vehicles employ aspoiler or fin, which is typically a non-structural plastic overhang.This may cause problems in attaching a bike rack to the vehicle becausespoilers, generally, cannot be utilized as a hook attachment point andbecause spoilers cannot sustain the weight of the bikes and bicyclecarrier. Additionally, certain types of spoilers may also cover thetrunk or rear hatch's upper door edge, further preventing a hookattachment at those points. Although the roof rack side rails may beused as an alternative for the upper hook attachment points, the straps,along with the weight of the bikes, may press down against the spoiler,thereby resulting with possible physical damage to the spoiler.

Therefore, what is needed is an economical, convenient, and mechanicallysound device to provide clearance for a bicycle carrier over fins andspoilers. The bicycle carrier may have an angular support device thatprevents any contact to the spoiler when the bicycle carrier is attachedto the vehicle.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

To minimize the limitations in the prior art, and to minimize otherlimitations that will become apparent upon reading and understanding thepresent specification, the present invention discloses a bicycle carrierwith a clearance frame that provides the necessary clearance over avehicle body accessory such as a spoiler or fin.

One embodiment of the present invention is a bicycle carrier adapted tomount onto a rear portion of a vehicle, the bicycle carrier comprising:one or more body frames; one or more clearance frames; and one or morestraps; wherein the one or more body frames are comprised of one or morearm supports, one or more upper frames, and one or more lower frames;wherein the one or more arm supports are configured to removeably fastento one or more bicycles; wherein the one or more upper frames and theone or more lower frames are connected, such that the one or more upperframes and the one or more lower frames engage with and mount onto arear portion of a vehicle; wherein the vehicle is configured to have atleast one vehicle body accessory; wherein the clearance frame isconnected to the one or more body frames, such that the one or moreclearance frames ensure that no portion of the bicycle carrier contactsthe at least one vehicle body accessory of the vehicle when the bicyclecarrier is mounted on the vehicle; and wherein the one or more strapsremoveably fasten the bicycle carrier to the vehicle. The one or moreclearance frames may be a straight-shaped frame. The one or moreclearance frames may be angular. The one or more support arms may beconnected to the one or more upper frames. The one or more support armsmay be connected to the one or more lower frames. The one or moresupport arms and the one or more upper frames may be part of a sameframe piece. The one or more support arms and the one or more lowerframes may be part of a same frame piece. The one or more clearanceframes may be pivotally attached to the one or more upper frames. Theone or more clearance frames may be pivotally attached to the one ormore lower frames. The one or more clearance frames may be pivotallyattached to the one or more arm supports. The one or more body framesmay be one or more U-shaped frames. The one or more body frames may beone or more H-shaped frames. The one or more clearance frames may be oneor more U-shaped frames. The one or more clearance frames may be one ormore H-shaped frames. The one or more clearance frames may besubstantially rectangular. The one or more clearance frames may be anadd-on frame extension. The bicycle carrier may further comprise of aplurality of adjustment hubs; wherein the one or more lower frames maybe pivotally connected by the plurality of adjustment hubs to the one ormore upper frames; wherein the one or more clearance frames may bepivotally connected by the plurality of adjustment hubs to the one ormore body frames; and wherein the bicycle carrier may be foldable at theplurality of adjustment hubs for storage when not in use. The one ormore straps may include one or more upper attachment straps; wherein theone or more upper attachment straps removeably fasten the clearanceframe to an upper portion of the vehicle. The bicycle carrier mayfurther comprise of one or more cushioning members; wherein the one ormore cushioning members may prevent one or more scratches onto thevehicle.

Another embodiment of the present invention is a bicycle carrier adaptedto mount onto a rear portion of a vehicle, the bicycle carriercomprising: one or more upper frames; one or more lower frames; one ormore bike support frames; one or more clearance frames; a plurality ofadjustment hubs; and one or more straps; wherein the one or more upperframes and the one or more lower frames are pivotally connected by theplurality of adjustment hubs, such that the upper frame and the lowerframe engage with and mount onto a rear portion of a vehicle; whereinthe one or more bike support frames is pivotally connected by theplurality of adjustment hubs to the lower frame; wherein the vehicle isconfigured to have at least one vehicle body accessory; wherein the oneor more clearance frames are pivotally connected by the plurality ofadjustment hubs to the one or more upper frames, such that the one ormore clearance frames ensure that no portion of the bicycle carriercontacts the at least one vehicle body accessory of the vehicle when thebicycle carrier is mounted on the vehicle; wherein the one or more bikesupport frames are configured to fasten one or more bicycles; whereinthe one or more straps fasten the bicycle carrier to the vehicle;wherein the one or more straps include one or more upper attachmentstraps; wherein the one or more upper attachment straps removeablyfasten the clearance frame to an upper portion of the vehicle; andwherein the bicycle carrier is foldable for storage when not in use. Theone or more clearance frames may be angular and a U-shaped frame. Theone or more clearance frames may be angular and an H-shaped frame. Theone or more clearance frames may be angular and substantiallyrectangular. The one or more clearance frames may be straight-shaped anda U-shaped frame. The one or more clearance frames may bestraight-shaped and an H-shaped frame. The one or more clearance framesmay be straight-shaped and substantially rectangular.

Another embodiment of the present invention is a bicycle carrier adaptedto mount onto a rear portion of a vehicle, the bicycle carriercomprising: one or more body frames; one or more clearance frames; andone or more straps; wherein the one or more body frames are comprised ofone or more arm supports, one or more upper frames, and one or morelower frames; wherein the one or more arm supports are configured toremoveably fasten to one or more bicycles; wherein the one or more upperframes and the one or more lower frames are connected, such that the oneor more upper frames and the one or more lower frames engage with andmount onto a rear portion of a vehicle; wherein the vehicle has at leastone vehicle body accessory; wherein the clearance frame is connected tothe one or more body frames and may contact the vehicle, such that theone or more clearance frames ensure that no portion of the bicyclecarrier contacts the at least one vehicle body accessory of the vehiclewhen the bicycle carrier is mounted on the vehicle; and wherein the oneor more straps removeably fasten the bicycle carrier to the vehicle. Theone or more clearance frames may be angular. The one or more supportarms may be connected to the one or more upper frames. The one or moresupport arms may be connected to the one or more lower frames. The oneor more support arms and the one or more upper frames may be part of asame frame piece. The one or more support arms and the one or more lowerframes may be part of a same frame piece. The one or more clearanceframes may be pivotally attached to the one or more upper frames. Theone or more clearance frames may be pivotally attached to the one ormore lower frames. The one or more clearance frames may be pivotallyattached to the one or more arm supports. The one or more body framesmay be one or more U-shaped frames. The one or more body frames may beone or more H-shaped frames. The one or more clearance frames may be oneor more U-shaped frames (e.g., the U-shape maybe formed from oneclearance frame or a combination of two or more clearance frames). Theone or more clearance frames are one or more H-shaped frames (e.g., theH-shape maybe formed from one clearance frame or a combination of two ormore clearance frames). The one or more clearance frames may besubstantially rectangular. The one or more clearance frames may be anadd-on frame extension. The bicycle carrier may further comprise: aplurality of adjustment hubs; wherein the one or more lower frames maybe pivotally connected by the plurality of adjustment hubs to the one ormore upper frames; wherein the one or more clearance frames may bepivotally connected by the plurality of adjustment hubs to the one ormore body frames; and wherein the bicycle carrier may be foldable at theplurality of adjustment hubs for storage when not in use. The one ormore straps may include one or more upper attachment straps; wherein theone or more upper attachment straps may removeably fasten the clearanceframe to an upper portion of the vehicle. The bicycle carrier mayfurther comprise: one or more cushioning members; wherein the one ormore cushioning members may prevent one or more scratches onto thevehicle.

Another embodiment of the present invention is a bicycle carrier adaptedto mount onto a rear portion of a vehicle, the bicycle carriercomprising: one or more upper frames; one or more lower frames; one ormore bike support frames; one or more clearance frames; a plurality ofadjustment hubs; and one or more straps; wherein the one or more upperframes and the one or more lower frames are pivotally connected by theplurality of adjustment hubs, such that the upper frame and the lowerframe engage with and mount onto a rear portion of a vehicle; whereinthe one or more bike support frames is pivotally connected by theplurality of adjustment hubs to the lower frame; wherein the vehicle hasat least one vehicle body accessory; wherein the one or more clearanceframes are pivotally connected by the plurality of adjustment hubs tothe one or more upper frames and may contact a vehicle, such that theone or more clearance frames ensure that no portion of the bicyclecarrier contacts the at least one vehicle body accessory of the vehiclewhen the bicycle carrier is mounted on the vehicle; wherein the one ormore bike support frames are configured to fasten one or more bicycles;wherein the one or more clearance frames are angular and are U-shapedframes; wherein the one or more straps fasten the bicycle carrier to thevehicle; wherein the one or more straps include one or more upperattachment straps; wherein the one or more upper attachment strapsremoveably fasten the clearance frame to an upper portion of thevehicle; and wherein the bicycle carrier is foldable for storage whennot in use.

Another embodiment of the present invention is a bicycle carrier adaptedto mount onto a rear portion of a vehicle, the bicycle carriercomprising: an upper frame; a lower frame; a bike support frame; aclearance frame; a plurality of adjustment hubs; and one or more straps;wherein the bike support frame is pivotally connected by the pluralityof adjustment hubs to the lower frame; wherein the lower frame ispivotally connected by the plurality of adjustment hubs to the upperframe and contacts a lower rear portion of the vehicle; wherein theupper frame contacts an upper rear portion of a vehicle; wherein thevehicle has at least one vehicle body accessory; wherein the clearanceframe is pivotally connected by the plurality of adjustment hubs to theupper frame and may contact a vehicle, such that the clearance frameensures that no portion of the bicycle carrier contacts the at least onevehicle body accessory of the vehicle when the bicycle carrier ismounted on the vehicle; wherein the bike support frame is configured tofasten one or more bicycles; wherein the clearance frame is angular andis a U-shaped frame; wherein the one or more straps fasten the bicyclecarrier to the vehicle; wherein the one or more straps include one ormore upper attachment straps; wherein the one or more upper attachmentstraps removeably fasten the clearance frame to an upper portion of thevehicle; and wherein the bicycle carrier is foldable for storage whennot in use.

Another embodiment of the present invention is a bicycle carrier adaptedto mount onto a rear portion of a vehicle, the bicycle carriercomprising: an upper frame; a lower frame; a bike support frame; aclearance frame; a plurality of adjustment hubs; one or more straps; andone or more cushioning members; wherein the upper frame is configured tocontact an upper rear portion of a vehicle; wherein the lower frame isconfigured to contact a lower rear portion of the vehicle; wherein thebike support frame is configured to fasten one or more bicycles; whereinthe lower frame is pivotally connected to the upper frame by theplurality of adjustment hubs; wherein the bike support frame ispivotally connected to the lower frame by the plurality of adjustmenthubs; wherein the clearance frame is pivotally connected to the upperframe by the plurality of adjustment hubs; wherein the clearance frameis configured to pivot the upper frame, such that the bicycle carrierdoes not contact a vehicle body accessory; wherein the one or morestraps are configured to fasten the bicycle carrier to the vehicle; andwherein the one or more cushioning members are located at portions ofthe bicycle carrier and are configured to prevent one or more scratchesto the vehicle. The clearance frame may be angular. The bicycle carriermay be foldable for storage when not in use. The one or more straps mayinclude one or more upper attachment straps; wherein the one or moreupper attachment straps may be configured to fasten the clearance frameto an upper portion of the vehicle. The one or more upper attachmentstraps may include one or more buckles; wherein the one or more bucklesmay be configured to tighten the one or more upper attachment straps.The plurality of adjustment hubs may include at least one lockingmechanism configured to prevent the pivoting of the upper frame and thelower frame. The vehicle body accessory may be selected from the groupconsisting of a spoiler and a fin. The clearance frame may be a U-shapedframe. The clearance frame may be an H-shaped frame. The clearance framemay be substantially rectangular.

Another embodiment of the present invention is a bicycle carrier adaptedto mount onto a rear portion of a vehicle, the bicycle carriercomprising: a body frame; a plurality of adjustment hubs; and one ormore straps; wherein the body frame includes an upper frame, a lowerframe, and a clearance frame; wherein the upper frame and the lowerframe are pivotally connected by the plurality of adjustment hubs andare configured to mount onto a rear portion of a vehicle; wherein theclearance frame is pivotally attached to the upper frame and may beconfigured to contact the vehicle, such that the bicycle carrier doesnot contact a vehicle body accessory; and wherein the one or more strapsare configured to fasten the bicycle carrier to the vehicle. Theclearance frame may be angular. The bicycle carrier may be foldable forstorage when not in use. The one or more straps may include one or moreupper attachment straps; wherein the one or more upper attachment strapsare configured to fasten the clearance frame to an upper portion of thevehicle. The one or more upper attachment straps may include one or morebuckles; wherein the one or more buckles may be configured to tightenthe one or more upper attachment straps. The plurality of adjustmenthubs may include at least one locking mechanism configured to preventthe pivoting of the frame. The vehicle body accessory may be selectedfrom the group consisting of a spoiler, a fin, and a wing. The clearanceframe may be a U-shaped frame. The clearance frame may be an H-shapedframe.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a bicycle carrierthat pivotally engages or mounts onto the rear end of a vehicle andpreferably has a clearance frame (i.e., preferably an additional frameextension), which provides the clearance needed over a vehicle bodyaccessory such as spoiler or fin. The clearance frame may be attached tothe upper portion of the bicycle carrier and may be adjusted orrotationally positioned.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a clearance frame aspart of a bicycle carrier or as an add-on to an existing bicyclecarrier.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a bicycle carrieradapted for vehicles with structural and/or non-structural vehicle bodyaccessories.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a clearance framefor a two-frame and/or three-frame bicycle carrier.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a bicycle carrierthat may collapse or fold for storage when not in use.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a bicycle carrierthat is configured for all vehicle types, including without limitation,sedans, hatchbacks, and sport utility vehicles.

It is an object of the present invention to overcome the limitations ofthe prior art.

These, as well as other components, steps, features, objects, benefits,and advantages, will now become clear from a review of the followingdetailed description of illustrative embodiments, the accompanyingdrawings, and the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings are of illustrative embodiments. They do not illustrate allembodiments. Other embodiments may be used in addition or instead.Details which may be apparent or unnecessary may be omitted to savespace or for more effective illustration. Some embodiments may bepracticed with additional components or steps and/or without all of thecomponents or steps which are illustrated. When the same numeral appearsin different drawings, it refers to the same or like components orsteps.

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a prior art two-framebicycle carrier mounted onto a rear portion of a vehicle.

FIG. 2 is an illustration of a perspective view of a prior artthree-frame bicycle carrier mounted onto a rear portion of a vehicle.

FIG. 3 is an illustration of a perspective view of a two-frame bicyclecarrier with a clearance frame and shows the clearance frame pivotallyconnected to the upper frame.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of a perspective view of a three-frame bicyclecarrier with a clearance frame and shows the clearance frame pivotallyconnected to the upper frame.

FIG. 5 is an illustration of a side view of one embodiment of thebicycle carrier and shows the bicycle carrier mounted onto a rearportion of a vehicle having a vehicle body accessory.

FIG. 6 is an illustration of a rear-perspective view of one embodimentof the bicycle carrier and shows the bicycle carrier mounted onto a rearportion of a vehicle having a vehicle body accessory.

FIG. 7 is an illustration of a perspective view of one embodiment of thebicycle carrier and shows the bicycle carrier mounted onto a sedan witha vehicle body accessory.

FIG. 8 is an illustration of a perspective view of a three-frame bicyclecarrier with a clearance frame and shows the clearance frame pivotallyconnected to the lower frame.

FIG. 9 is an illustration of a perspective view of a three-frame bicyclecarrier with a clearance frame and shows the clearance frame pivotallyconnected to the bike support frame.

FIG. 10 is an illustration of a front view of one embodiment of thebicycle carrier and shows the bicycle carrier folded for storage whennot in use.

FIG. 11 is an illustration of a perspective view of one embodiment ofthe bicycle carrier and shows the bicycle carrier folded for storagewhen not in use.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the following detailed description of various embodiments of theinvention, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide athorough understanding of various aspects of one or more embodiments ofthe invention. However, one or more embodiments of the invention may bepracticed without some or all of these specific details. In otherinstances, well-known methods, procedures, and/or components have notbeen described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects ofembodiments of the invention.

While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments of thepresent invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art fromthe following detailed description, which shows and describesillustrative embodiments of the invention. As will be realized, theinvention is capable of modifications in various obvious aspects, allwithout departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.Accordingly, the graphs, figures, and the detailed descriptions thereof,are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive. Also,the reference or non-reference to a particular embodiment of theinvention shall not be interpreted to limit the scope of the invention.

In the following description, certain terminology is used to describecertain features of one or more embodiments of the invention. Forexample, the term “vehicle” as used in this document refers to any typeof land vehicle or automobile, including without limitation,automobiles, sedans, hatch backs, square backs, vans, mini-vans, sportutility vehicles, hatchbacks, trucks, tractors, buses, station wagons,and the like. The term “vehicle body accessory” as used in this documentrefers to a vehicle's structural and/or non-structural vehicle bodyaccessory that bulges or projects outwardly or rearwardly from thevehicle, including without limitation, spoilers, fins, wings, bumps,antenna, whale tails, duck tails, tea trays, protrusions, and bulges.The term “straight-shaped”, as applied herein, refers to frames that areflat, smooth, and/or straight when placed upon a flat surface, andpreferably do not include any arcs, bents, or curved portions, with theexception of cornered portions. The term “angular”, as applied herein,refers to frames that are, with the exception of cornered portions, areangular, bent, and/or curved, with respect to a fixed plane.

The present invention is a bicycle carrier with a clearance frame thatmay be attached to the upper portion of the bicycle carrier. The bicyclecarrier may be a two frame rack, which typically includes an upperframe, lower frame, and arm supports. Arm supports may be integratedinto either the upper or lower frame. The bicycle carrier may also be athree frame rack, which typically includes an upper frame, a lowerframe, and a bike support frame, which may be comprised of arm supports.The upper frame preferably engages onto the upper rear portion of avehicle, and the lower frame preferably engages onto the lower rearportion of a vehicle. The arm supports or bike support frame preferablysecures one or more bicycles but may secure other items as well. Theclearance frame is preferably an extension frame that is connected tothe upper frame of the bicycle carrier and preferably providesrotational mounting or clearance to avoid contact with a vehicle'sstructural and/or non-structural vehicle body accessory such as aspoiler or fin to prevent damage to the vehicle body accessory. Theclearance frame may also be a removable add-on extension frame to anyconventional bicycle carrier. The bicycle carrier may further secureitself onto the vehicle using a system of straps, hooks, and buckles.The bicycle carrier may be used for various types of vehicles such assedans, hatch backs, and sport utility vehicles and may be foldable orcollapsible for storage when not in use.

The clearance frame preferably provides clearance for the bicyclecarrier to avoid contact and damage to both non-structural vehicle bodyaccessories (i.e., one or more components, which are removably attachedto the vehicle's body) and structural vehicle body accessories (i.e.,one or more components that are part of the vehicle's body and areunremovable). For example, a bicycle carrier may remove a non-structuralvehicle body accessory if the straps of the bicycle carrier pull thevehicle body accessory. On the other hand, a bicycle carrier may scratchthe paint of a structural vehicle body accessory if the straps rubagainst the vehicle body accessory. As such, it is preferable to providethe necessary clearance to avoid any contact and damage to thestructural and non-structural body accessories.

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a perspective view of a prior art two-framebicycle carrier mounted onto a rear portion of a vehicle. As shown inFIG. 1, the conventional two-frame bicycle carrier 100 preferablyincludes: body frames 105; straps 110; cushioning members 115;adjustment hubs 120, 125, and fastening members 128. Preferably, thebody frames 105 comprise of: arm supports 129; an upper frame 130; andlower frame 135. The arm supports 129 are structures that are preferablyconfigured to secure, hold, and/or fasten one or more bicycles and othertypes of cargo. The arm supports 129 also may be connected to the otherbody frames 105 such as the upper frame 130 or lower frame 135. The armsupports 129 may also be part of the upper frame 130 or lower frame 135as a single frame piece. For example, the arm supports 129 may be partof the upper frame 130, as illustrated in FIG. 1. The upper frame 130 istypically any structure configured to be mounted onto an upper rear-endportion of a vehicle 101. The upper frame 130 may be U-shaped andtypically includes one or more cushioning members 115, which areconfigured to protect the vehicle from scratching and/or other types ofdamages. Similarly, the lower frame 135 is generally any structureconfigured to be mounted onto a lower portion of a vehicle 101 and ispreferably pivotally connected to upper frame 130 by adjustment hubs120, 125. Similar to the upper frame 130, the lower support frame 135may be U-shaped and typically includes a plurality of cushioning members115, configured to protect the vehicle from any scratches. Although FIG.1, shows the upper frame 130 and lower frame 135 to be U-shaped, itshould be understood that the conventional two-frame bicycle carrier 100may have its upper frame 130 and lower frame 135 configured in any typeof shape, including without limitation, H-shaped, X-shaped, rectangular,and the like. Additionally, although FIG. 1 shows the arm supports 129to be part of upper frame 130, a conventional two-frame bicycle carrier100 may have its arm supports 129 part of its lower frame 135 as asingle frame, as opposed to the upper frame 130.

Regarding the adjustment hubs 120, 125, adjustment hubs 120, 125 aregenerally any structure configured to connect and pivot the upper frame130 and lower frame 135. The adjustment hubs 120, 125 may secure andlock relative movement of the upper frame 130 and lower frame 135 andmay lock such movement in order to mount or engage onto the rear endportion of the vehicle 101. For instance, as illustrated in FIG. 1,upper frame 130, using adjustment hubs 120, 125, typically pivots lowerframe 135 and may lock in order to mount onto the trunk of the vehicle101.

FIG. 1 also shows straps 110, which are typically used to fasten,connect, hold, and/or secure the bicycle carrier 100 to the vehicle 101.Straps 110 are generally constructed by any strip of nylon,polypropylene, polyethylene, leather, cloth, or other flexible andstrong material, and preferably include: upper straps 140, lower straps145, and side straps 150. The lower straps 145, side straps 150, andupper straps 140 may also include hook members, which preferably fastenonto the vehicle's body, such as edges of the trunk lid. Upper straps140 are typically configured to fasten the upper frame 130 to an upperrear portion of the vehicle 101 such as an upper trunk lid, roof rack,or the like. Lower straps 145 are generally configured to fasten thelower frame 135 onto the bottom rear portion of the vehicle 101 such asthe bottom edge of a trunk, bumper, body kit, or the like. Side straps150 are generally configured to fasten the upper frame 130 or lowerframe 135 onto any rear portion of the vehicle such as the vehicle'strunk, bumper, roof, roof rack, or the like. While FIG. 1 shows: (1) theupper straps 140 connected to the upper portion of the trunk lid; (2)lower straps 145 connect to the lower portion of the trunk lid; and (3)side straps 150 connected to side portions of the trunk lid, theconventional two-frame bicycle carrier 100 may have its upper straps140, lower straps 145, and side straps 150 connected anywhere on thevehicle.

Furthermore, FIG. 1 also show fastening members 128, which arepreferably located on the arm supports 129 of the body frame 105. Thefastening members 128 are preferably any device that restrains, holds,and/or secures the bicycles in place. The fastening members 128 may be asingle piece or multiple pieces, and may be constructed various types offasteners, including without limitation: hook and loop fasteners,buckles, zippers, snap fasteners, buttons, hooks, pins, glue, friction,and/or magnets. Although FIG. 1 shows six fastening members 128, aconventional two-frame bicycle carrier 100 may have any number offastening members.

FIG. 2 is an illustration of a perspective view of a prior artthree-frame bicycle carrier mounted onto a rear portion of a vehicle. Asshown in FIG. 2, a conventional three-frame bicycle carrier 200preferably includes: body frames 203, straps 219, cushioning members235; adjustment hubs 240, 245, 250, 255, and fastening members 260. Thebody frames 203 of the conventional three-frame bicycle carrier 200typically comprise of: an upper frame 205; lower frame 210; and bikesupport frame 215. The upper frame 205 is typically any structureconfigured to be mounted onto a rear upper portion of a vehicle 201. Theupper frame 205 may be U-shaped and typically includes a plurality ofcushioning members 235, which are configured to protect the vehicle fromscratching and other damage. Similarly, the lower support frame 210 istypically any structure configured to be mounted to a lower portion of avehicle. The lower support frame 210 may be U-shaped and also typicallyincludes a plurality of cushioning members 235, configured to protectthe vehicle from scratching. The bike support frame 215 is typically anystructure configured to support one or more bicycles and typicallyincludes one or more arm supports 259 and one or more fastening members260. The fastening members 260 are preferably configured to hold and/orsecure one or more bicycles onto the bike support frame 215. Thefastening members 260 may be a single piece or multiple pieces, and maybe constructed various types of fasteners, including without limitation:hook and loop fasteners, buckles, zippers, snap fasteners, buttons,hooks, pins, glue, friction, and/or magnets. Although FIG. 2 shows theupper frame 205, lower frame 210, and bike support frame 215 to beU-shaped, the upper frame 205, lower frame 210, and bike support frame215 of the conventional three-frame bicycle carrier 200 may beconstructed as other shapes as well, such as H-shaped, X-shaped,rectangular, and the like. Additionally, although FIG. 2 shows the bikesupport frame 215 having arm supports 259 being connected as a singlepiece, the arm supports may be separated in two or more pieces.

Regarding the straps 219, the straps 219 of the three-frame bicyclecarrier 200 are typically used to fasten, connect, hold, and/or securethe bicycle carrier 200 to the vehicle 201. Straps 219 preferablyincludes: upper straps 220; lower straps 225; and side straps 230 andmay be constructed by any strip of leather, cloth, or other flexible andstrong material. Similar to the two-frame bicycle carrier 100, thestraps 219 may include hook members, which preferably fasten onto thevehicle's body, such as edges of the trunk lid. The lower straps 225 mayfasten onto the lower portion of the vehicle's trunk lid; the upperstraps 220 may fasten onto the upper portion of the vehicle's trunk lid;and the side straps 230 may fasten onto the side portions of thevehicle's trunk lid.

FIG. 2 also shows that a conventional three-frame bicycle carrier 200that has the upper frame pivotally connected to the lower frame byadjustment hubs 240, 245. The adjustment hubs 240, 245, 250, 255 arepreferably any structure configured to connect and pivot the upper frame205, lower frame 210, and bike support frame 215 relative to each other.The adjustment hubs 240, 245, 250, 255 may secure and lock the relativemovement of the upper frame 205, lower frame 210, and bike support frame215, and typically lock such movement in order to mount or engage onto arear end portion of the vehicle 201. For instance, as illustrated inFIG. 2, upper frame 205 typically pivots and locks with respect to lowerframe 210 using adjustment hubs 240, 245 in order to mount onto thetrunk of the vehicle 201. Similarly, adjustment hubs 250, 255 may beused to pivot and lock the bike support frame 215 onto the lower frame210.

FIG. 3 is an illustration of a perspective view of a two-frame bicyclecarrier with a clearance frame and shows the clearance frame pivotallyconnected to the upper frame. As shown in FIG. 3, one embodiment of thebicycle carrier 300 preferably includes: body frames 303; straps 305;cushioning members 310; adjustment hubs 315, 320, 325, 330; fasteningmembers 335; and clearance frame 350. The body frames 303 preferablycomprise: arm supports 338; an upper frame 340; and a lower frame 345.The arm supports 338 are structures that are preferably configured tosecure, hold, and/or fasten one or more bicycles and other types ofcargo. The arm supports 338 also may be connected to the other bodyframes 303 such as the upper frame 340 or lower frame 345. The armsupports 338 may also be part of the upper frame 340 or lower frame 345as a single frame piece. For example, the arm supports 338 may be partof the upper frame 340, as illustrated in FIG. 3. The upper frame 340may be U-shaped and is preferably interconnected to the lower frame 345via adjustment hubs 325, 330. Similarly, the lower frame 345 may also beU-shaped and may be connected to the upper frame 340. Although FIG. 3shows the upper frame 340 and lower frame 345 to be U-shaped, it shouldbe understood that the present invention allows both upper frame 340 andlower frame 345 to be any other shapes as well such as H-shaped,X-shaped, rectangular, and the like.

FIG. 3 also shows the bicycle carrier 300 with straps 305, which aretypically used to fasten, connect, hold, and/or secure the bicyclecarrier 300 to a vehicle. Straps 305 are generally constructed by anystrip of leather, cloth, or other flexible and strong material, andpreferably include: upper straps 355; lower straps 360; and side straps365. The lower straps 360, side straps 365, and upper straps 355 mayalso include hook members, which preferably fasten onto the vehicle'sbody, such as edges of the trunk lid. Upper straps 355 are typicallyconfigured to fasten the upper frame 340 or clearance frame 350 to anupper rear portion of the vehicle 301 such as an upper trunk lid, roofrack, or the like. Lower straps 360 are generally configured to fastenthe lower frame 345 onto the bottom rear portion of a vehicle such asthe bottom edge of a trunk, bumper, body kit, or the like. Side straps365 are generally configured to fasten the upper frame 340 or lowerframe 345 onto any rear portion of the vehicle such as the vehicle'strunk, bumper, roof, roof rack, or the like. Although FIG. 3 shows onlytwo pairs of straps, it should be understood that any number of strapsmay be used.

FIG. 3 also shows a clearance frame 350, which is preferably a structurethat provides the necessary clearance to one or more body accessoriessuch as a spoiler, fin, or wing. The clearance frame 350 is preferablyconnected to the upper frame 340 as an extension of the upper frame 340but may connected to the other body frames 303 as well such as the armsupports 338 or the lower frame 345. Additionally, the clearance frame350 may be removeably connected to the bicycle carrier 300 as a simpleadd-on extension frame, as opposed to being permanently attached to thebicycle carrier 300. The clearance frame 350 is preferably angular andis preferably U-shaped. Although FIG. 3 shows the clearance frame to beU-shaped, the clearance frame may be constructed or welded into othershapes as well, such as H-shaped, X-shaped, rectangular, or the like.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of a perspective view of a three-frame bicyclecarrier with a clearance frame and shows the clearance frame pivotallyconnected to the upper frame. As shown in FIG. 4, one embodiment of thebicycle carrier 400 preferably includes: body frames 403; a clearanceframe 420; straps 407; cushioning members 440; adjustment hubs 445, 450,455, 460, 465, 470; and fastening members 475. The body frames 403preferably comprise of: an upper frame 405; lower frame 410; and bikesupport frame 415. The upper frame 405 may be U-shaped and is preferablyinterconnected to lower support frame 410 via adjustment hubs 455, 460.Similarly, the lower support frame 410 may be U-shaped and is alsopreferably connected to the upper frame 405. The bike support frame 415may be connected to the lower support frame 410, and likewise may beU-shaped. Portions of the bike support frame 415 also typically compriseof arm supports 418. Although FIG. 4 shows the upper frame 405, lowerframe 415, and bike support frame 420 to be U-shaped, it should beunderstood that the present invention allows the upper frame 405, lowerframe 410, and bike support frame 415 to be any other shapes as wellsuch as H-shaped, X-shaped, rectangular and the like.

FIG. 4 also shows the bicycle carrier 400 with straps 407, which aretypically used to fasten, connect, hold, and/or secure the bicyclecarrier 400 to a vehicle. Straps 407 are generally constructed by anystrip of leather, cloth, or other flexible and strong material, andpreferably include: upper straps 425; lower straps 430; and side straps435. The lower straps 430, side straps 435, and upper straps 425 mayalso include hook members, which preferably fasten onto the vehicle'sbody, such as edges of the trunk lid. Upper straps 425 are typicallyconfigured to fasten the upper frame 405 to an upper rear portion of avehicle such as a upper trunk lid, roof rack, or the like. Lower straps430 are generally configured to fasten the lower frame 410 onto thebottom rear portion of the vehicle such as the bottom edge of a trunk,bumper, body kit, or the like. Side straps 435 are generally configuredto fasten the upper frame 405 or lower frame 410 onto any rear portionof the vehicle such as the vehicle's trunk, bumper, roof, roof rack, orthe like. Although FIG. 4 shows only two pairs of straps, it should beunderstood that any number of straps may be used.

FIG. 4 also shows a clearance frame 420, which is preferably a structurethat provides the necessary clearance to one or more body accessoriessuch as a spoiler, fin, or wing. The clearance frame 420 is preferablyconnected to the upper frame 405 as an extension of the upper frame 405but may connected to the other body frames 403 as well such as the armsupports 418, bike support frame 415; or the lower frame 410.Additionally, the clearance frame 420 may be removeably connected to thebicycle carrier 400 as a simple add-on extension frame, as opposed tobeing permanently attached to the bicycle carrier 400. The clearanceframe 420 is preferably angular and is preferably U-shaped. AlthoughFIG. 4 shows the clearance frame to be angular and U-shaped, theclearance frame may be constructed or welded into other shapes as well,such as H-shaped, X-shaped, rectangular, or the like.

FIG. 5 is an illustration of a side view of one embodiment of thebicycle carrier and shows the bicycle carrier mounted onto a rearportion of a vehicle having a vehicle body accessory. As shown in FIG.5, one embodiment of the bicycle carrier 400 preferably includes: anupper frame 405; lower frame 410; bike support frame 415; clearanceframe 420; upper straps 425; cushioning members 440; adjustment hubs445, 450, 455, 465, 470; and fastening members 475. The upper frame 405is typically pivoted against the rear window of the vehicle 401. Thelower frame 410 is preferably secured against the rear portion of thevehicle 401 by fastening the lower straps 430 and the side straps 435.The clearance frame 420 is preferably suspended over the vehicle bodyaccessory 404 of the vehicle 401, and the clearance frame 420 ispreferably pivotally connected to the upper frame 405. Preferably, upperstraps 425 are connected to the clearance frame 420. Although FIG. 5shows no contact between the clearance frame 420 and the vehicle 401, itshould be understood that the clearance frame 420 may be configured tocontact other portions of the vehicle such as the roof, rear window, ortrunk. Preferably, clearance frame 420 is mounted to one of the otherbody frames 404, such as upper frame 405, such that the bicycle carrier400 can be mounted to vehicle 401 without any portion of the bicyclecarrier 400 contacting the vehicle body accessory 403. It should beunderstood that a loose end from one of the straps 407 would notconstitute contact with the vehicle body accessory 404. The object ofthe clearance frame is to enable a bicycle carrier to engage with avehicle without damaging the vehicle body accessory 403.

FIG. 6 is an illustration of a rear-perspective view of one embodimentof the bicycle carrier and shows the bicycle carrier mounted onto a rearportion of a vehicle having a vehicle body accessory. As shown in FIG.6, one embodiment of the bicycle carrier 400 preferably includes: anupper frame 405; lower frame 410; bike support frame 415; clearanceframe 420; upper straps 425; cushioning members 440; and adjustment hubs445, 450, 455, 460, 465, 470. The clearance frame 420 is preferablyangular to provide clearance to vehicle body accessory 404 of thevehicle 401.

FIG. 7 is an illustration of a perspective view of one embodiment of thebicycle carrier and shows the bicycle carrier mounted onto a sedan witha vehicle body accessory. As shown in FIG. 7, one embodiment of thebicycle carrier 400 preferably includes: body frames 403; clearanceframe 420; upper straps 425; lower straps 430; side straps 435;cushioning members 440; and adjustment hubs 445, 450, 455, 460, 465. Thebody frames 403 preferably comprise of: an upper frame 405; lower frame410; and bike support frame 415. To avoid contact with a vehicle bodyaccessory 404 on a sedan such as a spoiler or fin, the upper frame 405preferably folds or collapses towards lower support frame 410. FIG. 7shows that without the clearance frame 420, the bicycle carrier 400would not be able to mount to the sedan because the upper frame 405would contact the vehicle body accessory 404 and damage the vehicle bodyaccessory 404, or be prevented from mounting securely. Preferably, theupper frame 405 and lower frame 410 are substantially close to eachother, and this may be achieved when adjustment hubs 455, 460 rotate orpivot the upper frame 405 and lower frame 410. The distal portion of theclearance frame 420 preferably contacts the upper surface of thevehicle, such as the trunk, rear glass window, or roof. The upper straps425, side straps 435 and lower straps 430 also preferably tighten andsecure the bicycle carrier 400 onto the vehicle by fastening the bicyclecarrier 400 at portions of the vehicle such as edges of the trunk, roof,bumper, and windows. The arm supports of bike support frame 415preferably protrudes rearwardly, such that one or more bicycles may bestrapped or secured onto the arm supports of bicycle carrier 400.Although FIG. 7 shows the arm supports protruding outwards rearwardly,the arm portions of the bike support frame 415 may protrude in anydirection. Additionally, although FIG. 7 shows the bicycle carrierutilizing straps, it should be understood that the present invention maybe utilized without straps.

FIG. 8 is an illustration of a perspective view of a three-frame bicyclecarrier with a clearance frame and shows the clearance frame pivotallyconnected to the lower frame. As shown in FIG. 8, one embodiment of thebicycle carrier 500 preferably includes: body frames 503; clearanceframe 520; straps 507; cushioning members 540; adjustment hubs 545, 550,555, 560, 565, 570; and fastening members 575. The body frames 503preferably include: an upper frame 505; lower frame 510; and bikesupport frame 515. The straps 507 preferably includes: upper straps 525;lower straps 530; and side straps 535. FIG. 8 also shows the clearanceframe 520 connected to the lower frame 510 via adjustment hubs 545, 550and also being constructed as an H-shaped frame.

FIG. 9 is an illustration of a perspective view of a three-frame bicyclecarrier with a clearance frame and shows the clearance frame pivotallyconnected to the bike support frame. As shown in FIG. 9, one embodimentof the bicycle carrier 600 preferably includes: body frames 603; straps607; clearance frame 620; cushioning members 640; adjustment hubs 645,650, 655, 660, 665, 670; and fastening members 675. The body frames 603preferably comprise: an upper frame 605; lower frame 610; and bikesupport frame 615. The straps 607 preferably includes: upper straps 625;lower straps 630; and side straps 635. FIG. 9 also shows the clearanceframe 620 connected to the lower frame 610 via adjustment hubs 645, 650and also being constructed as an H-shaped frame.

FIG. 10 is an illustration of a front view of one embodiment of thebicycle carrier and shows the bicycle carrier folded for storage whennot in use. As shown in FIG. 10, one embodiment of the bicycle carrier700 preferably includes: an upper frame 705; lower frame 710; bikesupport frame 715; clearance frame 720; upper straps 725; lower straps730; side straps 735; cushioning members 740; and adjustment hubs 745,750, 755, 760, 765, 770. Adjustment hubs 765, 770 preferably pivotallyrotate the bike support frame 715, such that the arm portions of thebike support frame are substantially parallel to the lower frame 710.Similarly, adjustment hubs 755, 760 also preferably pivotally rotate theupper frame 705, such that the upper frame 705 and lower frame 710 aresubstantially close and parallel to one another. The upper straps 725;lower straps 730; and side straps 735 may also be tied to prevententanglement for storage when not in use.

FIG. 11 is an illustration of a perspective view of one embodiment ofthe bicycle carrier and shows the bicycle carrier folded for storagewhen not in use. As shown in FIG. 11, one embodiment of the bicyclecarrier 700 preferably includes: an upper frame 705; lower frame 710;bike support frame 715; clearance frame 720; upper straps 725; lowerstraps 730; side straps 735; cushioning members 740; and adjustment hubs745, 750, 755, 760, 765, 770.

Unless otherwise stated, all measurements, values, ratings, positions,magnitudes, sizes, locations, and other specifications which are setforth in this specification, including in the claims which follow, areapproximate, not exact. They are intended to have a reasonable rangewhich is consistent with the functions to which they relate and withwhat is customary in the art to which they pertain.

The foregoing description of the preferred embodiment of the inventionhas been presented for the purposes of illustration and description.While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments of thepresent invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art fromthe above detailed description, which shows and describes illustrativeembodiments of the invention. As will be realized, the invention iscapable of modifications in various obvious aspects, all withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the present invention.Accordingly, the detailed description is to be regarded as illustrativein nature and not restrictive. Also, although not explicitly recited,one or more embodiments of the invention may be practiced in combinationor conjunction with one another. Furthermore, the reference ornon-reference to a particular embodiment of the invention shall not beinterpreted to limit the scope the invention. It is intended that thescope of the invention not be limited by this detailed description, butby the claims and the equivalents to the claims that are appendedhereto.

Except as stated immediately above, nothing which has been stated orillustrated is intended or should be interpreted to cause a dedicationof any component, step, feature, object, benefit, advantage, orequivalent to the public, regardless of whether it is or is not recitedin the claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A bicycle carrier adapted to mount onto a rearportion of a vehicle, the bicycle carrier comprising: one or more bodyframes; one or more clearance frames; and one or more straps; whereinsaid one or more body frames are comprised of one or more arm supports,one or more upper frames, and one or more lower frames; wherein said oneor more arm supports are configured to removeably fasten to one or morebicycles; wherein said one or more upper frames and said one or morelower frames are connected, such that said one or more upper frames andsaid one or more lower frames engage with and mount onto a rear portionof a vehicle; wherein said vehicle is configured to have at least onevehicle body accessory; wherein said clearance frame is connected tosaid one or more body frames, such that said one or more clearanceframes ensure that no portion of said bicycle carrier contacts said atleast one vehicle body accessory of said vehicle when said bicyclecarrier is mounted on said vehicle; and wherein said one or more strapsremoveably fasten said bicycle carrier to said vehicle.
 2. The bicyclecarrier in claim 1, wherein said one or more clearance frames are astraight-shaped frame.
 3. The bicycle carrier in claim 1, wherein saidone or more clearance frames are angular.
 4. The bicycle carrier ofclaim 1, wherein said one or more support arms are connected to said oneor more upper frames.
 5. The bicycle carrier of claim 1, wherein saidone or more support arms are connected to said one or more lower frames.6. The bicycle carrier of claim 1, wherein said one or more support armsand said one or more upper frames are part of a same frame piece.
 7. Thebicycle carrier of claim 1, wherein said one or more support arms andsaid one or more lower frames are part of a same frame piece.
 8. Thebicycle carrier of claim 1, wherein said one or more clearance framesare pivotally attached to said one or more upper frames.
 9. The bicyclecarrier of claim 1, wherein said one or more clearance frames arepivotally attached to said one or more lower frames.
 10. The bicyclecarrier of claim 1, wherein said one or more clearance frames arepivotally attached to said one or more arm supports.
 11. The bicyclecarrier of claim 1, wherein said one or more body frames are one or moreU-shaped frames.
 12. The bicycle carrier of claim 1, wherein said one ormore body frames are one or more H-shaped frames.
 13. The bicyclecarrier of claim 1, wherein said one or more clearance frames are one ormore U-shaped frames.
 14. The bicycle carrier of claim 1, wherein saidone or more clearance frames are one or more H-shaped frames.
 15. Thebicycle carrier of claim 1, wherein said one or more clearance framesare substantially rectangular.
 16. The bicycle carrier of claim 1,wherein said one or more clearance frames are an add-on frame extension.17. The bicycle carrier of claim 1, further comprising: a plurality ofadjustment hubs; wherein said one or more lower frames are pivotallyconnected by said plurality of adjustment hubs to said one or more upperframes; wherein said one or more clearance frames are pivotallyconnected by said plurality of adjustment hubs to said one or more bodyframes; and wherein said bicycle carrier is foldable at said pluralityof adjustment hubs for storage when not in use.
 18. The bicycle carrierof claim 1, wherein said one or more straps includes one or more upperattachment straps; wherein said one or more upper attachment strapsremoveably fasten said clearance frame to an upper portion of saidvehicle.
 19. The bicycle carrier in claim 1, further comprising: one ormore cushioning members; wherein said one or more cushioning membersprevent one or more scratches onto said vehicle.
 20. A bicycle carrieradapted to mount onto a rear portion of a vehicle, the bicycle carriercomprising: one or more upper frames; one or more lower frames; one ormore bike support frames; one or more clearance frames; a plurality ofadjustment hubs; and one or more straps; wherein said one or more upperframes and said one or more lower frames are pivotally connected by saidplurality of adjustment hubs, such that said upper frame and said lowerframe engage with and mount onto a rear portion of a vehicle; whereinsaid one or more bike support frames is pivotally connected by saidplurality of adjustment hubs to said lower frame; wherein said vehicleis configured to have at least one vehicle body accessory; wherein saidone or more clearance frames are pivotally connected by said pluralityof adjustment hubs to said one or more upper frames, such that said oneor more clearance frames ensure that no portion of said bicycle carriercontacts said at least one vehicle body accessory of said vehicle whensaid bicycle carrier is mounted on said vehicle; wherein said one ormore bike support frames are configured to fasten one or more bicycles;wherein said one or more straps fasten said bicycle carrier to saidvehicle; wherein said one or more straps include one or more upperattachment straps; wherein said one or more upper attachment strapsremoveably fasten said clearance frame to an upper portion of saidvehicle; and wherein said bicycle carrier is foldable for storage whennot in use.
 21. The bicycle carrier in claim 20, wherein said one ormore clearance frames are angular and a U-shaped frame.
 22. The bicyclecarrier in claim 20, wherein said one or more clearance frames areangular and an H-shaped frame.
 23. The bicycle carrier in claim 20,wherein said one or more clearance frames are angular and substantiallyrectangular.
 24. The bicycle carrier in claim 20, wherein said one ormore clearance frames are straight-shaped and a U-shaped frame.
 25. Thebicycle carrier in claim 20, wherein said one or more clearance framesare straight-shaped and an H-shaped frame.
 26. The bicycle carrier inclaim 20, wherein said one or more clearance frames are straight-shapedand substantially rectangular.
 27. A bicycle carrier adapted to mountonto a rear portion of a vehicle, the bicycle carrier comprising: anupper frame; a lower frame; a bike support frame; a clearance frame; aplurality of adjustment hubs; and one or more straps; wherein said bikesupport frame is pivotally connected by said plurality of adjustmenthubs to said lower frame; wherein said lower frame is pivotallyconnected by said plurality of adjustment hubs to said upper frame andcontacts a lower rear portion of said vehicle; wherein said upper framecontacts an upper rear portion of a vehicle; wherein said vehicle has atleast one vehicle body accessory; wherein said clearance frame ispivotally connected by said plurality of adjustment hubs to said upperframe, such that said clearance frame ensures that no portion of saidbicycle carrier contacts said at least one vehicle body accessory ofsaid vehicle when said bicycle carrier is mounted on said vehicle;wherein said bike support frame is configured to fasten one or morebicycles; wherein said clearance frame is angular and is a U-shapedframe; wherein said one or more straps fasten said bicycle carrier tosaid vehicle; wherein said one or more straps include one or more upperattachment straps; wherein said one or more upper attachment strapsremoveably fasten said clearance frame to an upper portion of saidvehicle; and wherein said bicycle carrier is foldable for storage whennot in use.